Freshwater West near Castlemartin in South Pembrokeshire is a popular destination for surfers. The beach, which faces due West, is surrounded by sand dunes and has a mixture of fine sand and pebbles. The water quality is excellent and the area is home to many types of bird, seals, otters and the occasional dolphin. There is a thatched shack on the foreshore which is a rebuilt shelter used for drying the seaweed used to make the Welsh speciality, Laverbread.
Swimming is not advisable as there are dangerous offshore swells and strong currents and only surfers who are strong swimmers should take to the waves. It is a great place to watch the surfing and the Welsh National Surfing Championships are held here in May if the surf allows. The beach also has areas of unmarked quicksand. Warning signs are in place near the beach.
Lifeguards: Swimming is not advisable. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months
Dogs are allowed but please be considerate to other beach users and remember you must always clean up after your dog.
